Distinguish between classification and tabulation of data
Answers
Explanation:
Classification is the process of grouping the data on the basis of some common characteristics. Tabulation is the process of placing the classified data in columns and rows.
Classification is the first step in tabulation. Tabulation process starts only after the classification is completed.
Classification is done for the purpose of tabulation whereas tabulation is done for the purpose of analysis of data.
Rules for tabulation
The important rules for tabulation are given below:
Number: Table must be arranged with number in order to identify the table
Title: Table must have a title. The title should be clear, brief and self-explanatory. It should convey the content and purpose of the table.
Stubs and Captions: Stubs are the row headings and Captions are column headings. Stubs and Captions should also be clear and brief.
Body of the table: The body of the table contains the numerical information. This is the most important part of the table and should contain only relevant information. Table should not be overloaded with details.
Spacing: Proper space should be provided in between various data presented in the table. It helps for easy identification of data. Proper spacing gives good appearance for the table.
Total: Total must be given for each column and row.
Head note: It is a brief explanation of the information given in the table. It is placed below the title in brackets
Footnotes: If any item presented in the table needs further explanation, it should be given at the end of the table.
Source: Source is an important requirement for the table. Source indicates the place or person from whom the information is collected. It gives more authenticity for the table.
Answer:
The primary difference between classification and tabulation is that the process of classifying data int groups is known as classification of data, whereas tabulation is the act of presenting data in tabular form, for better interpretation.
After the collection of data is completed, it is prepared for analysis. As the data is raw, it needs to be transformed in such a way, that it is appropriate for analysis. The form of data, highly influences the result of analysis and so, to get positive results, the data preparation should be proper. There are various steps of data preparation, which include editing, coding, classification, tabulation, graphical representation and so on.
For a layperson, classification and tabulation are same, but the fact is they are different, as the former is a means to sort data, for further analysis while the latter is used to present data.